This is the 38th in a daily series of in-depth evaluations on the top 40 prospects leading up to the 2012 NFL Draft, which runs Thursday-Saturday. Today: Morris Claiborne, CB, LSU.

STRENGTHS: Claiborne (5-11, 188, 4.50 in the 40) is an elite athlete with the quick feet, agility and speed to be productive in all types of pass coverages. He has a strong jolt to slow down a receiver’s release in press alignment and doesn't hesitate to maintain physical play on short routes. This enables him to consistently re-route receivers. Consequently, he's able to throw off the timing between the quarterback and his target.

Cornerback Morris Claiborne, an LSU product, has the ability to play immediately at the NFL level. (AP Photo)

Given his loose hips, Claiborne has the ability to turn and run with a receiver, from both press and “off” alignments. He has the speed to stay on a receiver’s hip on deep routes. When the ball is thrown in front of him, Claiborne does a good job of transitioning and closing in on the receiver. He has both the ball skills and body control to go around or through a receiver to break up passes without committing a penalty. Although many cornerbacks establish good coverage position to make a play on the ball, many do not act. Claiborne is not one of those corners and consistently makes plays.

While not a violent hitter, he is a good “wrap-up” tackler who puts his opponent to the ground. In run support, Claiborne consistently fights through receiver blocks in order to make tackles.

WEAKNESSES: Claiborne’s testing numbers at the Combine were average. As to his ability to focus amid constant pressure, he will have to show this is not an issue. At LSU, opposing teams rarely threw in his direction as he was such a strong cornerback. In the NFL, however, teams will challenge Claiborne's ability to cover receivers on a new level.

DRAFT STATUS: Claiborne will be a top 10 pick and, in our opinion, is a better prospect than 2010 teammate Patrick Peterson, who was the fifth overall pick a year ago. It's rare to have a 5-11 cornerback like Claiborne who also possesses great athletic ability and football smarts.

The Vikings, Buccaneers and Jaguars will consider drafting Claiborne in the top 10. Minnesota is debating between offensive tackle Matt Kalil and Claiborne given the fact it needs talent at both positions. The Bucs are re-evaluating Aqib Talib due to his numerous off-field issues. In addition, Ronde Barber is 37 and near the end of his great career. Many expect the Jaguars to draft a receiver or pass rusher. Their best cornerback, Rashean Mathis, is 31 and recovering from surgery to repair a torn ACL. Jacksonville would welcome the opportunity to obtain an elite cornerback in order to raise the level of its defense.